How much does camping cost at Lake Anita State Park?

Camping fees at Lake Anita State Park range from $14-$16/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Lake Anita State Park first-come first-served or reservation?

Lake Anita State Park accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Lake Anita State Park before I book?

Yes! Lake Anita State Park has 1 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Lake Anita State Park?

Lake Anita State Park is open Peak season appears to run from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend, as indicated by seasonal activities and reviews.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Lake Anita State Park?

Yes, Lake Anita State Park has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

Is there cell service at Lake Anita State Park?

Cell phone service at Lake Anita State Park is generally available. Cell service is available. Coverage may vary by carrier and exact location within the campground.

Are dogs allowed at Lake Anita State Park?

Yes, pets are allowed at Lake Anita State Park. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Lake Anita State Park?

Lake Anita State Park offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Dump Station, Electrical Hookups, Water Hookups, Sewer Hookups, Pets Allowed, Camp Store. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Lake Anita State Park?

Popular activities at Lake Anita State Park include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Biking, Boating, Wildlife Viewing, Beach Activities. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Lake Anita State Park

Q: Can I have a campfire at Lake Anita State Park?

Fire policies at Lake Anita State Park: Firewood sales are available through the campground host. Fire pits are equipped with grates for cooking.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.40

125 reviews

55111 750th St, Anita, Iowa, 50020, United States

StargazingTent CampingSummer Destination

Featured in:Beach Camping Iowa#2 RV Camping Iowa Swimming Camping Iowa +8 more

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

1,335 ft

Price

$14 - $16/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Full HookupsShowers

Book on Lake Anita State Park Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

1,335 ft

Price

$14 - $16/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Full HookupsShowers

Book on Lake Anita State Park Official Website

Get Directions

Lake Anita State Park

$14.00 - $16.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Camping costs range from $14 for primitive campsites to $16 for sites with hookups. Tent camping is described as affordable in user reviews.

Standard Site Fee$14.00

Hookup Site Fee$16.00

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7127623564

I manage this campground

Plan a trip to Lake Anita State Park

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Campground Map

55111 750th St, Anita, Iowa, 50020, United States

Lake Anita State Park

55111 750th St, Anita, Iowa, 50020, United States

Nearby places

Anita (less than 1 mile), Adair (8 miles northeast), Atlantic (12 miles west)

Nearby supplies

Supplies are available within 1 mile including groceries, fuel, firewood, snacks, ice, drinks, and retail items. Atlantic, approximately 12 miles west, offers larger grocery stores and Walmart.

Driving directionsFrom I-80, take exit 70 and go south on Highway 148. This will take you through Anita. The park is on the west side of Highway 148 south of Anita. From Highway 83, turn south onto Highway 148. The park is on the west side of Highway 148 south of Anita.

Paved roads provide access to the campground, but user reviews have noted that the roads leading to the park are worn and bumpy. Seasonal closures are not mentioned.

Weather at Lake Anita State Park

Best Time to Camp at Lake Anita State Park

Summer is peak season. Highs run 80-90°F with lows in the 60s, and the lake draws families for swimming, boating, and beach time. Weekend crowds spike in July and August. Afternoon thunderstorms roll through occasionally, so plan water activities for mornings. The park's concessions operate seasonally, typically Memorial Day through Labor Day. Spring and fall offer comfortable temperatures for hiking and biking the paved trails. Winter is quiet. The landscape turns stark and the lake freezes, but cross-country skiing and ice fishing are possible.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Peak season with swimming, boating and beach use; weekends often full but activity is abundant.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Peak season appears to run from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend, as indicated by seasonal activities and reviews.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: The campground is open year-round, with amenities like bathrooms and concessions available seasonally.

About Lake Anita State Park

Lake Anita State Park spreads across 1,062 acres of southwest Iowa, centered on a 171-acre lake created by damming a branch of the Nishnabotna River. The campground offers tent, RV, and primitive sites ($14-16/night) with amenities ranging from full hookups to vault toilets. Restored prairie grasslands and patches of timber surround the water, and visitors consistently praise the clean facilities and variety of activities, though sites can be tightly packed during summer weekends.

Lake Anita State Park offers a variety of accommodations, including electric, non-electric, and full hook-up campsites. Tent camping and RV camping are both supported, with some sites offering full utilities. No cabin or glamping options are mentioned.

Historical Significance

The park opened in 1969. It has since become a regular stop for RAGBRAI, the annual bike ride across Iowa, and hosts events like "Christmas in July." Saturday night movies with popcorn are a campground tradition during summer months.

Weather and SeasonsSummer is peak season. Highs run 80-90°F with lows in the 60s, and the lake draws families for swimming, boating, and beach time. Weekend crowds spike in July and August. Afternoon thunderstorms roll through occasionally, so plan water activities for mornings. The park's concessions operate seasonally, typically Memorial Day through Labor Day. Spring and fall offer comfortable temperatures for hiking and biking the paved trails. Winter is quiet. The landscape turns stark and the lake freezes, but cross-country skiing and ice fishing are possible.

ElevationThe park's gently rolling terrain creates varied vantage points throughout the landscape, offering visitors changing perspectives of the lake and surrounding prairies as they explore different areas of the park.

Natural Features and SceneryThe 171-acre lake sits at 1,335 feet elevation, reflecting the sky at sunrise and sunset. Restored prairie grasslands surround the water, recreating the native tallgrass ecosystems that once dominated this region. Early successional timber provides pockets of shade and wildlife habitat, though recent Emerald Ash Borer management has reduced tree cover in some areas. The blend of open prairie and wooded patches creates good conditions for birdwatching and wildlife viewing. The landscape is gently rolling. Paved trails loop around portions of the lake, and the water itself stays calm enough for paddling and swimming most days.

Geological RegionCarved from the southwest Iowa landscape, Lake Anita State Park tells a story of human ingenuity meeting natural beauty. The 171-acre lake, created by damming a branch of the ancient Nishnabotna River, now serves as the liquid heart of this recreational oasis. Surrounding the water, carefully restored prairie grasslands recreate the vast seas of grass that once dominated this region, while patches of early successional timber provide glimpses of Iowa's woodland heritage. This thoughtful blend of engineered waterway and restored natural habitats creates a unique geological tapestry.

Scenic ViewsMany campsites offer lake views. Specific mentions include sites like 114 and areas described as having 'beautiful lake and sunset views.' One reviewer described the view as 'like a Monet painting.'

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodges are explicitly mentioned. Camping accommodations consist of various campsite types.

Programs & ActivitiesSaturday night movie events are a signature feature, often accompanied by free popcorn. One user shared, 'Free Saturday night movies with free popcorn!'

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in time is not specified.

Check-out

Check-out time is not specified.

Stay Limit

There is no specific stay limit mentioned.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Specific guest limits per site are not mentioned.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSites are tiered with primitive, electric, and full hookup options. Spacing varies widely. Some sites are small and tightly packed, especially in the RV areas. Others have room behind the pad for outdoor activities. Roads leading into the park can be bumpy. The campground has both paved and gravel interior roads.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online, but the exact platform is not specified.

Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites are available. User reviews mention walk-in camping being easy to find during quiet weekdays.

Cancellation PolicyRules for cancellation are not detailed.

AccessibilityThe park offers handicap-accessible facilities, including certain campsites. One camper noted, 'Helpful camp host found us a handicap spot for single night.

Site SizeThe campsites vary in size, with some being quite small and closely packed together,' as one user noted. Another reviewer commented, 'Plenty of space behind campers for activities.

PrivacyPrivacy levels vary by site type and location. Some spots are described as crowded, while others, like Site 114, are described as private and secluded ('Site 114 is like camping alone!').

Recommended SitesTent camping areas are mentioned as shaded, while some sites are described as unsuitable for tents due to hard ground. Full hookup sites are often busy on weekends.

Best CampsitesSite 114 gets consistent praise for privacy and seclusion. One reviewer said it feels like camping alone. Sites 45-50 offer lake and sunset views. Most other sites are more closely spaced. If you want distance from neighbors, reserve 114 or one of the 45-50 cluster early.

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Amenities available

Lake Anita State Park offers comprehensive amenities suitable for a wide range of campers. The campground features electric, non-electric, and full hook-up sites, with modern shower/restroom buildings available. Notable facilities include a dump station, firewood sales, and a camp store operated by the camp host during specific hours. There are also picnic areas, playgrounds, and yard games available for entertainment. Reviewers consistently praise the cleanliness of restrooms and showers. One user noted, 'I have never seen cleaner restrooms at a state park,' and another commented on 'super clean restrooms and showers.' However, some reviewers pointed out that tent camping spots can be quite small and closely spaced.

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Water hookups

Sewer hookups

Flush toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Lake Anita State Park offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, swimming, and boating. The 171-acre lake is a focal point for many activities, with opportunities for beach-related fun and wildlife viewing. Seasonal events like Saturday movie nights enhance the visitor experience. Reviews highlight biking trails, noting their quality and scenic routes, and fishing is described as a popular activity.

Hiking

Fishing

Swimming

Biking

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsHazards include ticks, as noted in reviews. The campground has limited shade due to tree removal caused by Emerald Ash Borer.

Fire PolicyFirewood sales are available through the campground host. Fire pits are equipped with grates for cooking.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are not explicitly stated.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services include a hospital greater than 10 miles away, likely located in Atlantic. Police stations and ranger services are available within the park.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are well-maintained. One camper praised, 'Even the recycling and garbage area was clean and tidy and didn’t smell.'

Water FeaturesThe campground is located along a 171-acre artificial lake with multiple boat ramps, fishing jetties, and a beach for swimming.

Camp HostHosts are praised for being friendly and helpful, offering yard games and firewood for sale.

Cell CoverageCellular service is described as adequate by some reviewers. One camper stated, 'Cellular service adequate,' while another didn't mention any specific issues.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

From Booking Sources

4.4

125 reviews

Recommended

Lake Anita State Park is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

Lake Anita State Park receives overwhelmingly positive reviews for its cleanliness, variety of activities, and well-maintained facilities. Negative feedback typically pertains to campsite proximity and the occasional overbooking of RV sites. Seasonal movie nights and the lake's scenic views are highlights.

Review Summaries

Based on 125 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 125 reviews.

Site 114Loved
Site 114 is highlighted for its privacy and scenic views.
Site 94Mentioned
Site 94 is described as small and closely packed.

What Campers Love

Praised for clean restrooms and showers, beautiful lake views, well-maintained facilities, paved trails for biking and walking, abundant recreational options, and friendly camp hosts.

Based on 125 reviews

Common Concerns

Sites can be closely packed, tent camping spots are sometimes small, and occasional issues with hot water in showers.

Based on 125 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Reserve RV sites in advance for weekend visits; explore Site 114 for privacy; enjoy Saturday night movies and popcorn; bring bikes for the scenic trail; expect less shade post-tree removal due to...

Based on 125 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the busiest season, with weekends often fully booked. Fall and spring offer quieter experiences. Winter camping is noted for its tranquility and scenic appeal.

Based on 125 reviews

Camper Quotes

'Super clean restrooms and showers.' 'Free popcorn and a movie.' 'Site 114 is like camping alone!' 'The paved path around the lake is great for cycling and walking.'

Based on 125 reviews

Accessibility Features

The park offers handicap-accessible facilities. One camper shared, 'Helpful camp host found us a handicap spot for a single night.'

Based on 125 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but no specific reviews detail experiences with pets.

Based on 125 reviews

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Go if

Families with bikes and kids win here: the paved lake trail, clean beach, sand volleyball, and free Saturday movie nights with popcorn are all within easy reach. Site 114 is the standout for privacy and lake views, and the fishing runs to walleye, bass, and catfish.

Skip if

Shade-seekers will struggle since Emerald Ash Borer removal has opened up much of the canopy. Tent campers drawing a site like 94 may feel packed in tight, and hot water in the showers can be inconsistent on busy summer weekends.

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